US Tightens the Screw on Iran: What's the Plan?

The US is intensifying its efforts to squeeze Iran. The Treasury Department's sanctions chief, John Hurley, is traveling to the Middle East and Europe to discuss strategy. His itinerary includes stops in Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and Lebanon.

Trump's "Maximum Pressure" Campaign

The goal? To cut off Iran's access to money and stop its nuclear program. The US alleges that Iran is secretly developing nuclear weapons under the guise of a civilian energy program. Iran maintains that its nuclear activities are purely for peaceful energy purposes.

Key Discussions on the Itinerary

• Israel & UAE: Strategies to pressure Iran's regional allies.
• Turkey: Focus on sanctions evasion and regional instability.
• Lebanon: Likely discussions on Hezbollah and financial restrictions.

Historical Context

This isn't the first time the US has targeted Iran. In his first term, Trump withdrew the US from the 2015 nuclear deal limiting Iran's nuclear activities. In September 2020, the UN reinstated an arms embargo and other sanctions on Iran.

Will It Work?

It's uncertain. Iran has withstood sanctions before, and not everyone agrees with the US approach. Critics argue that sanctions escalate tensions rather than resolve them. Still, the US remains determined to push forward.